SPOT User Guide

This user guide will give you all the essential informationneeded for interacting with, configuring, and deploying a
Wildlife Computers SPOT tag.

v.202305

Table of Contents

Before you Begin........................................................................................................................................................................ 3
About the SPOT .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Anatomy of a SPOT ................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Tag States ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Interacting with a Tag .............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Connecting a Tag to Your PC ................................................................................................................................................ 7
Configuring Tag Settings ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
Tag Information.......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Data Product Settings .............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Summary Period Data .............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Daily Data .................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
Transmission Settings ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
Transmission Modes .............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Transmission Parameters ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
Loading Settings into a Tag ................................................................................................................................................ 16
Creating Templates ................................................................................................................................................................ 16
Viewing Configuration History .......................................................................................................................................... 17
Check Sensor Readings ........................................................................................................................................................ 17
Test Transmission ................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Argos Transmitter Test.......................................................................................................................................................... 23
Disconnect from SPOT .......................................................................................................................................................... 23
Using Tag Portal to Select Settings Remotely .............................................................................................................. 24
Offline Mode ............................................................................................................................................................................. 24
Tag Storage and Battery Maintenance ........................................................................................................................... 25
Technical Specifications ....................................................................................................................................................... 26
Additional Information ......................................................................................................................................................... 26
Resources................................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Contacting Wildlife Computers ......................................................................................................................................... 34
Addendum—Tag Storage for AA Battery Configurations ....................................................................................... 35

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Before you Begin

The information contained in this guide is designed to help you get the most from your deployment.
In the guide, you will see the yellow icon highlighting information where special attention should be
paid.
The list below shows what is required to configure and deploy a SPOT tag:••••

A Wildlife Computers Data Portal Account.
A Windows® computer with Tag Agent and our USB driver installed.
A Wildlife Computers communications cable.
A magnet.

Visit wildlifecomputers.com to download the required software (Tag Agent and the USB
communications cable driver) and setup an account. At the end of this document, there is a list of key
terms and concepts for reference. We recommend inexperienced users review this list as well as the
Deployment Checklist.

About the SPOT

The Wildlife Computers SPOT tag is an Argos transmitter that includes temperature and wet/dry
sensors.
SPOT tags transmit to the Argos satellite system. Consecutive transmissions received in a single
satellite pass are used to calculate the location of the tag and its host animal. See http://www.argossystem.org for more information on Doppler locations.
SPOT tags have an on-board clock that keeps track of when a transmission should be made. When it istime to make a transmission, the SPOT monitors its wet/dry sensors. As soon as the sensors indicate adry condition, transmission is initiated.

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Anatomy of a SPOT

Wildlife Computers offers SPOT tags in different shapes to suit a variety of applications. While theshapes may differ, all SPOT tags have many elements in common (Figure 1).

Figure 1—typical backmount SPOT showing: (a) Argos antenna, (b) communications port with plug, (c) LED indicator light, (d)magnetic switch, and (e) wet/dry sensors.

Note: the magnetic switch is not visible. It is located near the base of the communication port. Swiping amagnet across the communication port will activate the switch.

The wet/dry sensor is composed of two or more metal discs on the surface of the tag. Do not coverany of the metal discs with anything including antifouling substances and/or attachment adhesives(e.g., epoxy). Seawater contact is essential for normal function of the tag.
The communications port is where the Wildlife Computers Communications Cable connects to thetag. Prior to a deployment, this port should be sealed with the plug provided. Smear a small amount of
the silicone grease supplied onto the sides and bottom of the plug, align the plug and pins, andcarefully push the plug into the port. If it does not align easily with the pins, rotate it 180° and try
again. The plug prevents corrosion of the pins during the deployment; however, the plug is not
required for the tag to function normally.

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Tag States

SPOT tags have three states—Auto-Start, Start and Stop.
Auto-Start—when in Auto-Start mode, the SPOT tag will automatically deploy when submerged inseawater.
Start—when in Start mode, a SPOT tag is running and will transmit to Argos satellites. When first
deployed, the tag’s LED will blink every second. This “heartbeat” blink provides visual confirmationthat a tag switched from Auto-Start to Start and is meant to prevent deployment of deactivated tags.
Additionally, the LED will blink brightly whenever the SPOT tag transmits to the satellite. The durationof both the heartbeat blinks and transmission blinks is user-programmable (see Miscellaneous
Settings section). For some applications, it may be best to disable the blinks as they can draw
unwanted attention to the tagged animal.
Stop—Stop mode is used for storing and shipping tags. In Stop mode, the tag will remainunresponsive until the tag is communicated with via Tag Agent. If storing tags, keep them in a cold
place such as a refrigerator or freezer. See Tag Storage and Battery Maintenance.

Display a Tag’s State Using a Magnet

Passing a magnet near the communications port will cause the tag to reveal its current state using the
LED.
•
•
•

Two blinks and a pause repeated three times means the tag is in Auto-Start mode.
Ten rapid blinks indicate the tag is Started.
No blinks indicate the tag is Stopped.

Change a Tag’s State Using a Magnet

A timed magnet swipe can be used to change the state of a SPOT between Auto-Start and Start
modes.
First, swipe the magnet and wait for the tag to indicate its current state. At the end of the blinking
pattern, the indicator light will remain on for several seconds. If the magnet is swiped a second time
during the extended light-on stretch, the state will toggle. The second swipe needs to happen in thewindow when the light is on (Figure 2).

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Figure 2—sample of the indicating light pattern.

Figure 3—methods for changing states in a SPOT tag. Tag Agent can be used to put a SPOT in any state.

Interacting with a Tag
Tag Agent

Tag Agent is used to communicate with SPOT tags. A local copy of Tag Agent must be downloaded
the first time you use it. Once installed, all updates to the tag’s setup are done directly through thelocal copy on your machine. More information on how to use Tag Agent is be found in the Wildlife
Computers Data Portal & Tag Agent User Guide.
The USB driver must be installed, and a Wildlife Computers Data Portal account must be createdprior to opening and using Tag Agent.
Each time Tag Agent is launched, you will be greeted by a welcome screen (Figure 4). Along thebottom the Tag Status, USB Status, and Cloud Status are displayed.

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Figure 4—Tag Agent welcome screen.

Connecting a Tag to Your PC

To communicate with a tag, open Tag Agent and use the USB communication cable to plug the tag
into your PC. Make sure to align the pins properly. Once plugged in, swipe a magnet near the tag’s
communication port to establish a connection. The Tag Agent home screen will appear with tag
information on the left and sensor readings on the right (Figure 5).

Figure 5—Tag Agent home screen.

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If this is the first time you are communicating with a tag, a pop-up box will ask if you would like tobecome the tag administrator. Selecting ‘yes’ will allow you to select and publish tag settings.

Configuring Tag Settings

Use the Administer Tag button in the upper menu of Tag Agent to configure tag settings.

Figure 6—Tag Agent menu bar. Select Administer Tag to edit tag settings.

A new window will open revealing three categories—Tag Information, Data Product Settings, andTransmission Settings.

Figure 7—collapsed version of SPOT tag programming categories.

Tag Information
Tag Details

This tab includes information on tag administrators and the Tagware version. A friendly name can be
assigned to the tag if desired. This can make it easier to search and filter for the tag within the portal.

Argos Settings

The PTT decimal and hexadecimal numbers as well as the Argos uplink ID are listed here. PTT numbers
are a manufacturer’s setting. Contact Wildlife Computers if a change is needed.

Miscellaneous Setting

SPOT tags are equipped with an LED that flashes for a specified duration when deployment begins,serving as a visual confirmation that the tag has transitioned from Auto-Start to Start mode. If the
flashing LED could potentially harm your animal, it may be advisable to deactivate the LED flashes.

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Figure 8—expanded view of Tag Details tab.

Data Product Settings

In addition to providing locations, the SPOT tag can optionally transmit two data products. These are
Time-at-Temperature histograms and Percent Dry Timelines.
Enabling SPOT data products will generate larger messages which require more power to transmit.
The more data product messages created, the greater the impact on battery life.

Summary Period Data
Time-at-Temperature Histograms (TAT)The Time-at-Temperature histogram reports the amount of time that an animal spent within eachtemperature bin. The amount of time is reported as a percentage of the histogram summary period.
Select the high temperature limit for each bin. Next choose the summary period. The summary period
can range from one hour to 24 hours, but the chosen period must divide the day evenly. The summary
period begins immediately after midnight UTC by default and runs to the end of the UTC Day.
Selecting a six-hour summary period will cause the tag to generate four histograms. One from 00:00
hrs. to 06:00 hrs.; one from 06:00 hrs. to 12:00 hrs.; one from 12:00 hrs. to 18:00 hrs.; and one from18:00 hrs. to 24:00 hrs. This pattern repeats on the next UTC Day.
To measure behavior associated with local time, you can delay the start of each summary period bysetting a summary period offset. Choosing an offset of three hours will shift the example summary
periods as follows: 03:00 hrs. to 09:00 hrs.; 09:00 hrs. to 15:00 hrs.; 15:00 hrs. to 21:00 hrs.; and one from21:00 hrs. to 03:00 hrs.
Choosing a one-hour summary period will cause twenty-four times more data to be generated thanchoosing a 24-hour summary period.
Be aware that the temperature sensor is buried in the tag and has a response time of approximately 30
minutes.

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Figure 9—example of Time-at-Temperate histogram with six-hour summary periods and a three-hour start delay.

Daily Data
Percent-Dry Timelines

This timeline reports the amount of time the tag is dry. The amount of time is reported as apercentage of each hour in the day. Choosing the Low-Resolution option will cause the tag to reportto the nearest 10%. The Low-Resolution timeline will also indicate when the tag was wet for the entire
hour and when the tag was completely dry for the entire hour. The High-Resolution option reports tothe nearest 1%.

Figure 10—low resolution percent dry timeline enabled.

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The percentages are as follows:

Transmission Settings
Data Uplinks

Argos uplinks serve two purposes—generation of Argos locations and data transmission.
Location Messages—SPOT tags send short, three-byte messages for the purpose of generating
locations. The location uplink scheduler is used to set hourly or daily transmission limits. The scheduler
is highly flexible. See At-Sea Mode versus Haul-Out Mode section for more information.
Data Messages—the tag uses a separate itinerary to transmit data messages. Data throughput is
optimized by sending each data message multiple times (approximately 10). Resent messages are
separated in time by at least 40 minutes to maximize the odds of reception. Data messages are only
combined with location messages when timing coincides.
In summary, SPOT tags transmit two types of messages—short, location-only messages whichtransmit at a user determined uplink schedule and longer, data-filled messages which transmit
according to a preset agenda. Data messages are independent of the location transmit count. A tag
programmed to send 250-location transmissions per day and generate 10-data messages could
attempt 350 uplinks (assuming each data message is sent ten times). This is important to keep in mind
for power budgeting.

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Transmission Modes
At-Sea Mode versus Haul-Out Mode

Independent transmission regimes can be set for when an animal is At-Sea versus Haul-Out.
The Haul-Out mode entry and exit conditions are user defined. When haul out is achieved the tag
switches to its slower repetition rate (usually 90 seconds).
If tagging an animal that never hauls out, set Haul-Out mode to DISABLED to ensure transmissions
always occur at the faster repetition rate.

Transmission Patterns

Both transmission modes have a schedule that can have one or more patterns.

Patterns can start on a specific calendar date or after a fixed number of days. This allows the
tag to modify its behavior to accommodate changing requirements during the deployment.
When an interval is used, the number of days is timed from the deployment start for the AtSea Schedule. For the Haulout Schedule, the interval is timed from the start of haulout rather
than the start of the deployment.

Figure 11—example of a deployment with three transmission patterns.

Transmission Steps

Each pattern is made up of sequential steps and a loop. The pattern will run to the last step, thenrevert to the step designated by the loop and repeat. This can be any step in the pattern. The loop
allows steps in a schedule to be used only once or for all the steps to be repeated.

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Figure 12—transmission schedule example with an initial pattern made up of two looping steps. Step one lasts for one daywith an unlimited number of transmissions allowed. Step two lasts for 24 hours with a limit of 250 uplinks per day. On day one
hundred, the next pattern is scheduled to begin.

Figure 13—a pattern which repeats all steps (a), and a pattern which uses steps one and two once and then repeats the last
step (b).

To configure steps within a pattern, select the pencil icon under the Actions column on the far right.
1. Select the duration of the step.
2. Select the options for the step.
• Set the Location Uplink Limit—the limit can be either hourly or for the entirety of the step.
• Enable/Disable the Pinger—the pinger is used for radio tracking recovery.
• Prevent Data Uplink—this will disable data transmissions for this step. This has significant
power savings for some applications.
• Lock the Step—overrules the At-Sea and Haul-Out mode definitions for the duration of thestep.
• Stay Until Midnight—locks the step until the UTC midnight after the step was set to expire.
It is used to synchronize subsequent steps to UTC midnight.
The info button next to each option offers additional information.

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Figure 14—example of a step lasting one day with an uplink limit of sixty attempts per hour and the pinger enabled.

The daily and hourly transmit settings are displayed at the bottom of the box. A caution symbol
appears if fewer than fifty transmits per day are scheduled. Achieving locations from so few uplinks
can be a challenge.
The Location Uplink Limit is the maximum number of transmissions for the duration of that step. It
is not a daily transmission limit unless the duration is set to 24 hours.
If numerous steps have been set, the spiral arrow icon under the Actions column can be used to create
loops.

Figure 15—two looping steps created using the arrow icon.

Considerations for Setting Location Uplink Limits

1. Hourly limits can be used to distribute transmissions evenly throughout a step. By default, when astep begins, transmissions occur as fast as possible (at the set Argos repetition rate and whena dry environment is detected). Once the uplink limit is achieved, transmissions are suspended
until the next step begins. If a long step duration is set the allowable transmissions may be
used before the step is complete. This can result in recurring gaps in location data. For
example, in the case of a 24-hour step with a total transmit limit of four hundred, and arepetition period of 30 seconds, the tag could run through its allowance in the first four hours
after UTC midnight. Alternatively, a limit of sixteen uplinks per hour could be set and locations
achieved throughout the day.
2. Only a fraction of transmissions sent result in locations. Argos locations require a perfectcombination of events.

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a. A satellite must be overhead (near the equator satellites are overhead roughly 20% of
the time).
b. The tag and animal must be at the surface.
c. The tag must be allowed to transmit (the uplink limit must not have been met, and nomask must be on).
d. Multiple uplinks must be received during a single satellite pass (ideally 3+).
e. When the transmit limit is too conservative it can be difficult to achieve these
conditions.
3. Consider battery capacity and your target mission duration. SPOT tags can send a finite numberof transmissions. Limiting the number of transmissions allowed per step can save battery lifeand extend the deployment. This is especially important for animals that spend ample time at
the surface or haul out. For animals that surface infrequently (such as turtles and sharks)
animal behavior tends to restrict transmits more than the set limit.
Contact Wildlife Computers to discuss the battery capacity of your tag, your target deployment lengthand how frequently locations are required.

Transmission Parameters
Argos Uplink Mask

In each location there are known, consistent gaps in Argos satellite coverage. The Mask feature can beused to save battery power by preventing a tag from transmitting during hours with few or no satellite
passes.

Figure 16—Argos Uplink Mask with UTC hour ten disabled.

By default, all transmitting hours are enabled (blue). Hours which you choose to disable will turn red
and appear with an ‘X.’
The best and worst satellite coverage hours can be determined using the Argos Pass Prediction
Program. See Argos Satellite Pass Prediction section for instructions on how to use the program.
If you expect your animal to move more than 500 km East or West, leave all hours enabled assatellite coverage will change drastically enough that masking is not advised. Alternatively, you
may run satellite pass predictions for the expected new locations and determine if there areappropriate transmission hours for the animals’ entire migration. The Uplink Mask does not impact
data collection or the pinger. The schedule only impacts when Argos transmissions are allowed.

Argos Uplink Settings

The minimum uplink interval (or repetition rate) is displayed for At-Sea and Haul-Out modes.
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The typical rate for pinnipeds is 45 and 90 seconds, respectively. Turtles and sharks tend to have faster
At-Sea rates (15-30 seconds) to increase the probability of multiple transmissions reaching thesatellites.
The repetition rate is a manufacturer setting. Contact Wildlife Computers before deployment if you
wish to change the interval.
Argos uplinks can be delayed by fractions of a second once the tag is ready to transmit and becomesdry. This is typically used for large cetaceans to make sure the animal is well clear of the water and not
likely to be splashed or re-submerged during an uplink. Note: the dry readings are attempted at 0.25
second intervals.
To maximize the probability of receiving data messages, it is recommended that each unique message
be sent ten times. Changing the number of times a message is re-sent will impact what data arereceived.

Figure 17—graph showing the probability of successful data transmission with an increasing number of re-transmits for a
specific location. A per message corruption rate of 10% is assumed.

Loading Settings into a Tag

Once settings have been chosen, use the blue Send Changes button to load settings into the tag. Tag
Agent will confirm receipt of settings with a pop-up box.

Creating Templates

A template can be saved so the same settings may be applied to multiple tags. To save settings as atemplate, click the four horizontal lines in the shape of a squarevisible in the top right corner of thescreen. You have the option of creating an online template or a local template file of the current
settings selected. Local templates are used when no Internet connection is available.

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Viewing Configuration History

You can review a tag’s programing history using the arrow icon on theleft-hand sidebar menu. Clicking the arrow exposes the tag history.
Previous tag settings can be viewed by clicking on each date listed. The
blue check mark indicates settings were applied. A date without a check
mark indicates settings were proposed but not applied to a tag.

Check Sensor Readings

The sensor values displayed on the Tag Agent home screen arecontinuously updated from the tag. Sensor functionality can be validated
by manipulating the sensors as follows:••

Figure 18—arrow icon exposes tag
programing history.

Internal Temperature—this will change slowly as the entire tagchanges temperature. Leaving a tag in a refrigerator for a while will change the value.
Wet/Dry—connecting a wire between a ground and active wet/dry sensor disc should change
the value from 255 to less than 20.

Perform Battery Tests

Prior to deploying your tags, check that the batteries are functioning optimally.

Sending Test Transmissions

Sending Test Transmissions gives a quick view of the current battery voltage and power output of thetag.

Tips to Optimize this Test
To optimize the Sending Test Transmissions Test, consider the following:• Antenna angle should point UP. The angle of the antenna should mimic how the tag willorient while transmitting in the field. Never touch the antenna to anything.
• Some SPOT tags should be held ~15cm above the desk for this test. Think of the desk as
the surface of the water. You should hold the tag in a way that imitates the height of the
instrument when the animal comes out of the water. For finmount applications, tags shouldbe held higher (~15-30 cm above the desk). For backmount and towed tag applications, tags
should lie flat or nearer to the desk (antenna up). See the photos below.

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Figure 19—example of finmount orientation (left) and single-point finmount (right) for Test Transmission test.

Connect your USB cable to each SPOT tag and log into Tag Agent. In the menu at the top, click the“Advanced” tab. Scroll down to “Send Test Transmission” and follow the prompts.

Figure 20—example of Send Test Transmission.

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The test transmission voltage should read 3.3V or higher and the battery voltage displayed on themain sensor screen should be around 3.5V.

Figure 21—example of acceptable transmit battery voltage and acceptable transmit current.

If the output values of three consecutive test transmissions are all within the expected range(s), and all
sensors on the main sensor screen are within the normal range, the tag is ready to continue storing, or
it is ready to deploy.
••

To continue storing; Disconnect the tag in “Stop” mode.
To prepare for deployment (<1 month); Disconnect the tag in “Auto-Start” mode.

If you see a lower than acceptable voltage, it may be due to passivation forming during storage. We
recommend taking additional steps to dislodge passivation by performing the Battery Exercise
Routine in Tag Agent.

Battery Exercise Routine

If a tag shows a low voltage reading after three consecutive low Test Transmission results, run theBattery Exercise Routine in Tag Agent. Refer to the Tips to Optimize Transmitting Tests.
To start the test, in the top menu, select the “Advanced” tab and click “Battery Exercise Routine.”

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Figure 22—Battery Exercise Routine location in Tag Agent.

The following box will appear:

Figure 23—Battery Exercise Routine prompt.

••

To run the test, click “OK” to exercise the battery. The test will perform ten transmissions very
quickly.
To exit test, click “Cancel.”Figure 24—example view of ongoing Battery Exercise Routine test.

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After the test’s initial run, if the battery voltage is below the recommended threshold, Tag Agent willprompt you to run the test again. Click Ok.
•

You will see the prompt up to nine more times if the battery voltage continues to read below therecommended threshold.

Figure 25—low voltage output. Prompt to rerun test.

If the battery voltage is still below the threshold after ten runs of the test, contact your Technical Sales
Consultant (tags@wildlifecomputers.com).

Figure 26—low voltage output. Contact Wildlife Computers.

If the battery voltage is above the threshold during any part of the Battery Exercise Routine, Tag Agent
will display the following message:

Figure 27—acceptable voltage output prompt.

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When you see the battery voltage is above the threshold prompt, the tag is ready for either storage or
deployment.
••

To continue storing; Disconnect the tag in “Stop” mode.
To prepare for deployment (<1 month); Disconnect the tag in “Auto-Start” mode.

The outcome of each test will save to the TagLog for each tag within the Tag Portal. Depending on
which test you perform (Test Transmission or Battery Exercise Routine), the name of the test willappear in the column.

Figure 28—Tag Portal’s TagLog view of Test Transmission test results.

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Argos Transmitter Test

The Argos Transmitter test allows for a full system test to confirm that the tag is successfully sending
messages to the Argos satellites. Click on the Advanced Tab then Argos Transmitter Test.

Figure 29—Argos Transmitter Test.

•••

Seconds Offset: If you will be testing multiple tags at one time, you can use this parameter tooffset transmissions so the tags will not transmit at the same time.
Transmit Count: How many times you want the tag to transmit. 120 transmissions at a sixty
second interval will provide a 2-hour test, which is usually enough to coincide with a couple ofsatellite passes. Check the satellite passes in your area prior to beginning the test.
Seconds Apart: The time between each transmission. 60 seconds is standard.

When all the tags are set up and deployed, take them outside where they have a full view of the sky.
Upon completion of the Argos Transmitter Test, the tag will be in STOP mode. You must
communicate with it again prior to deploying it. When the test is complete, verify that the LED lightis not on. If the LED light is on, you MUST communicate with the tag using Tag Agent and manuallyplace the tag in Auto-Start or Stop mode.

Disconnect from SPOT

Use the Disconnect button on the upper right of the Tag Agent home screen menu to select the tag
state before unplugging. If you are planning to deploy soon, select Auto-Start. The tag will then auto
deploy upon submersion in saltwater.
Always disconnect the tag using the Disconnect button. Unplugging without setting the tag state
could leave the tag in a state that will rapidly deplete the battery.

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Using Tag Portal to Select Settings Remotely

Tag Portal is the cloud-based service offered by Wildlife Computers for remotely selecting tag settings.
Configuring can be done without connecting to your tag. This enables project coordinators to review
and select settings for their associates and programming to be done while tags are in transit before
arrival. More information on using Tag Portal can be found in the Wildlife Computers Data Portal & Tag
Agent User Guide.
When logged into your portal account, a list of the tags for which you have administration rights canbe viewed under the My Tags tab. To select settings, click on the serial number of the tag you wish toconfigure or use the pencil icon.
This will open a new window with setting selections. The same programming options are available
whether settings are configured via Tag Portal or from within Tag Agent.
Once settings have been selected in Tag Portal, click the blue Propose Changes link. This will save thesettings into the Cloud. The next time the tag communicates with Tag Agent (no matter who plugs in
the tag), a notification will appear stating that new settings are awaiting upload.
Multiple set-ups can be published resulting in a queue of configurations awaiting upload. In this case,a dialog box will reveal a list of the configurations, when they were selected, and which administrator
chose the settings.
Tag Portal maintains a historical record of tag settings each time changes are uploaded into a tag. The
record is instantly updated so long as an Internet connection is available.
If tags are programed offline using Tag Agent, the next time an Internet connection is established andTag Agent software is open, the record automatically updates.

Offline Mode

Before programming can be done offline, Tag Agent must be downloaded and opened with valid
credentials entered while connected to the Internet. Credentials are your Wildlife Computers Data
Portal login username and password.
If the software has been opened once and credentials entered, programming offline is possible. To
program settings, select Administer Tag from Tag Agent’s top navigation bar, configure the tag, andclick Send Changes. A dialog box will confirm when settings are loaded into the tag.
The next time an Internet connection is established, and Tag Agent software is open, the historical
record will be updated in Tag Portal.
Online templates are not accessible when working offline. To program a group of tags with the samesettings when working without an Internet connection, you need to create a local template. A file ofthe selected tag settings will be saved onto your local machine. Local templates can be created andapplied in the Template Manager. Expose the Template Manager with the icon in the upper rightcorner of the screen.
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The Internet connection status is displayed at the bottom of the Tag Agent home screen.

Tag Storage and Battery Maintenance

Proper tag storage is important to minimize passivation and keep the batteries charged. When storedcorrectly, the amount of battery life lost per year is only 1-2 percent. Battery passivation may cause low
voltage readings, and in extreme cases, may compromise the battery. For this reason, batteries must
be stored and then exercised.
Care must be taken with tags containing 1 AA battery only to avoid battery passivation. Read theAddendum at the end of this User Guide for Special Storage and Testing Guidelines.
As a standard, SPOT tags ship in “Auto-Start” mode for immediate deployment, unless otherwise
specified.

SPOT Storage—Less Than One Month

Not much needs to be done as you will be deploying them soon. Keep the tags in “Auto-Start” mode.
Wildlife Computers recommend storing tags in a cool, dry environment—ideally around +5° C—like a
refrigerator or freezer.

SPOT Storage—Longer Than One MonthIf you are storing SPOT tags for longer than one month, place your tag in “Stop” mode using Tag
Agent and exercise the batteries at least 3 months* prior to your deployment to confirm the battery
voltage is 3.3-3.7V.
To change the Tag State from “Auto-Start,” connect to each tag and log in to Tag Agent. In the menu
at the top, you will see the “Disconnect Tag” tab. Scroll down to “Stop.” The tags can now be stored.
Wildlife Computers recommend storing tags in a cool, dry environment—ideally around +5° C—like a
refrigerator or freezer.

Figure 30—example of how to put tag in Stop Mode in Tag Agent.

Ideally, every few months we suggest exercising the tag’s batteries by sending several test
transmissions. This can be done in Tag Agent. Select Advanced and then Send Test Transmission. The
transmission voltage should read approximately 3.3v and the battery voltage level displayed on the

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main sensor screen should be around 3.5v. It may take several transmissions for the tag voltage tobuild up after storage.
If you receive a low voltage reading, it may be due to passivation. Turn the tag on and leave it outside
for several hours according to the Argos Transmitter Test instructions. When the unattended Argos
test concludes, reconnect to Tag Agent to and perform three more Test Transmissions to see if thetransmission voltage level has increased.

Technical Specifications

Below are general physical specifications of SPOT tags.
Pressure rating

2000 m for most shapes

Operating frequency

401.678 MHz

Sensors

Temperature, Wet/Dry

Temperature

Range: -40° C to 60° C / Resolution: 0.05° C

Conductivity operational limits

0.1 to 5 S/mCommunication

Via USB port using Wildlife Computers USB communications cable

Additional Information
Glossary of Terms
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Administrator—someone who has the authority to publish tag settings.
Argos ID—uniquely identifies a transmitter for the Argos system. The ID consists of a decimal
number and a hexadecimal (base 16) number.
Argos Location—a location generated by the Argos system from uplinks received during asatellite pass. Get more information about how the Argos system works here:
http://www.argos-system.org/web/en/391-faq-general-questions.php
Argos Uplink—a radio transmission intended for the Argos satellite system.
At-Sea and Haul-Out—tag states controlled by wet/dry readings.
Daily Data—generated from sensors over a fixed 24-hour period.
Data Message—created by the tag to transmit data through the Argos system. Each data
message is transmitted as payload in an Argos uplink. To increase the likelihood of its
reception by the Argos system, each message is sent a fixed number of times.
Data Products—the various types of data available from Wildlife Computer tags.
Deployment—the period when a tag is associated with an animal and actively collecting andsending telemetry data.

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•

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Location Uplink—a transmission intended to generate an Argos location. These uplinks canalso carry a data message payload. Multiple uplinks are required to generate an Argos
location.
Pinger—a UHF radio tracking beacon.
Start/Auto-Start/Stop—tag states. When started, the tag will generate locations and/or collectsensor data. Auto-Start will allow the tag to Start using a magnet or when reading wet. Stopcauses the tag to do nothing until reconnected to Tag Agent.
Summary Period Data—generated from sensors during a defined number of hours.
Tag Agent Software—the program used to change tag states, select tag settings, and connecta tag to the Wildlife Computers Tag Portal.
Tagware—the software running on a tag.
Wildlife Computers Communication Cable—the Wildlife Computers communication cablerequired by Tag Agent.
Tag Portal—the cloud-based service offered by Wildlife Computers for remote tag setup. A
historic record of tag settings and templates is maintained within the Tag Portal.
Wet and Dry—the state of the tag as determined by the wet/dry sensor which measuresconductivity.

Argos Satellite Pass Prediction

CLS offers a satellite pass prediction program to help forecast satellite coverage at a given location.
Additionally, Wildlife Computers offers a tool to graph the results and display the best hours for tags
to transmit data for up to six months. The Wildlife Computers tool will display satellite pass histogramsin both UTC/GMT for tag programming, and in local time for tag initialization and testing.
The following instructions outline the two-step process:To determine when satellites will be in view, log onto the CLS website at http://www.argos-system.org
and select “DATA ACCESS.” Log in with your Argos username and password. Ensure that the time
settings next to the login username are set to UTC. If not, then change them using the settings icon.
To run a simulation, select “Satellite Pass Prediction” on the right side of the dashboard.
• To run a simulation, select “Satellite Pass Prediction” on the right side of the dashboard.
• Set your simulation period—select today’s date as the “Start Date.” Then select “End Date.”
Use the calendar box on the right-hand side to select an end date that is six months out fromtoday’s date (the calendar will be grayed-out after six months). A shorter period can beselected for initialization testing or shorter deployments.
• Select satellites—ensure all satellites are selected.
• Enter location—select “Latitude/Longitude/Altitude.” Input your deployment location
coordinates. The location will display on the world map on the right-hand side. Altitude mustalso be set to “0” for marine applications.
• Click “Simulate”—the results spreadsheet will now appear.
• Click “Export”—select to save as a .CSV file and to save it in an easy-to-access location on yourcomputer.
• Exit the Argos website.
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Plotting the Results•

Use a web browser to navigate to the following link: http://bit.ly/argospassprediction. Adjust
the UTC/GMT slider to the UTC/GMT offset of your current location, including possible
daylight-saving time.

•

Upload the Argos file—browse and import the pass prediction file saved from Argos. The
program will display the pass prediction data for the next six months which will assist in
selecting the best hours to activate the tag.

Tags must always be set and programmed in UTC/GMT time. The “Local Time” histogram is onlyused for identifying the best hours for tag initialization and testing.

Figure 31—satellite coverage is best in UTC hours 2-4 and worst in hours 7-10 with no passes at all in hours 8 and 9.

If you expect your animal to move East or West more than 500 km, leave all hours enabled assatellite coverage varies significantly East to West so the mask will not be effective.
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Initializing Tags Prior to Deployment

Before deploying a SPOT tag, it is recommended to conduct a trial mission. Activating tags prior to
deployment has several benefits. It provides exposure to the software and data, it allows you toevaluate the performance of the tag, and, most importantly, it enables Argos to secure a quality
location at your field site prior to the animal being released. This is significant because the Kalmanfiltering algorithm not only uses measurements from the current satellite pass but also from priorsatellite passes to calculate positions from just one or two Argos messages.
Run the trial mission for four to six hours, leaving the tag outside with a clear view of the sky. It can bebeneficial to run a pass prediction via the Argos website to ensure multiple satellite passes arescheduled during the mission window.
If the primary purpose of the trial is to hit the Argos satellites and generate locations, therecommended settings are one step with a 250-uplink limit and no data products enabled. If data
product testing is desired, ensure the summary periods fit within your six-hour testing time.

Figure 32—settings for priming Argos locations; a single six-hour step with a 250-uplink limit and no data uplinks.

When testing multiple tags, it is important to space out the transmissions, so they do not interferewith one another. This is easily accomplished by using a magnet to activate tags ten-seconds apart.
Alternatively, it can be accomplished by starting tags using Tag Agent, placing tags in a bucket of salt
water, and then pulling each tag out of the bucket, ten seconds apart. Wildlife Computers
recommends only testing four to five tags at a time to avoid signal collisions. You could alternatively
run an Argos Transmitter Test as described above.
After the trial, review your results in the data portal. Use Tag Agent to change the tag settings andswitch the state to Auto-Start or Stop.

The Pinger

The pinger is used for radio tracking recovery. When enabled, a SPOT tag sends out low-powerpings every two seconds while at the surface. With an appropriate receiver and directional
antenna, the tag can be located. Excess power drawn from the pinger is negligible.

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Battery Isolator Screw

Certain SPOT tags with ample battery power (>2g lithium metal) include a battery isolator screw.
The isolator keeps batteries disconnected during shipment. Once tags arrive at their destination,
the screw must be inserted to connect the batteries.
Tag Agent displays the SPOT tag battery status on the lower left.

Figure 33—Tag Agent showing the Battery Status as disconnected and the placement of the battery isolator screw on a SPOT-257
tag.

What is Antifouling Paint and Why You Should Apply It

Heavily fouled tags can be hugely detrimental to tagging studies as fouling growth over critical sensors
impedes the tag’s transmitting performance. Especially for deployments in tropical waters, it is imperativethat tags be protected against marine growth.
Wildlife Computers leaves the decision to apply antifoul coating after manufacturing and before
deployment entirely to the researcher’s discretion, however, we strongly recommend that tags be treatedwith some antifouling coating to ensure the best possible chance of a successful deployment as Wildlife
Computers does not warranty against biofouling.
Wildlife Computers endorses two antifouling coatings: Micron and Propspeed. Micron is a copper-based
antifouling paint that has a biocide which repels barnacles. For optimal protection, it is critical to use
International Paints’ Interprotect primer in addition to several coats of paint. Micron is a great choice forslow movers like sea turtles and whale sharks—http://bit.ly/Micron66. While we prefer Micron66, it is notavailable in some countries. There are dozens of paint options available, but Micron 66, Micron77 andMicron99 are our favorites from years of testing and client feedback. Other Micron paints will function well
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if properly applied. If Micron paint is unavailable in your area, try to find an alternative copper-based
ablative antifouling paint with a suitable primer. Wildlife Computers does not apply Micron antifouling
paint.
Tags must only be handled with gloves as Micron contains copper and biocides. Store the tags in a
Ziploc® bag as Micron gives off a strong odor. Store the tags in a cool place. A refrigerator is good but NOTwith food.
Propspeed is a foul release silicon coating, not an antifoul, that impedes biofouling adhesion. Propspeed is
non-toxic and widely available. Propspeed relies on movement for its effectiveness—the more it moves,
the better it performs as marine growth cannot get a grip to grow. Propspeed can last up to a year and is
non-toxic according to the manufacturer. Wildlife Computers offers an optional service to sand, mask, andpaint tags with Propspeed antifouling and coat the wet/dry sensors with conductive polymer. This
comprehensive antifouling service is offered at a charge of $100 per tag prior to shipping.
For instructions on how to apply antifouling coatings, videos, and more:https://wildlifecomputers.com/our-tags/extras/anti-fouling/
SPOT tag wet/dry sensors should never be covered or coated with antifouling paint. Seawater contact isessential to these sensors for correct operation. Use masking tape to protect the wet/dry sensors when
painting.

Antifouling Tests

Wildlife Computers have been undertaking tests on antifouling paint in various parts of the world.
Below is an image of submerged polyurethane and epoxy test plates after two months on a wharf pile in
New Zealand.
Propspeed is at the top and has done a reasonable job but has started to fail. Next is a placebo blankarea with no protection that has fouled badly. The next strip down had Micron without a primer and theMicron has nearly worn away completely.
The Micron at the bottom has one coat of Interprotect primer and three coats of Micron—it is pristine. We
recommend this set up for a successful project.

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not be used, published, or redistributed without the prior written consent of Wildlife Computers.

Resources
Peel Ply Instructions

Backmount SPOT tags are shipped with a sheet of heavy-duty white polyester peel ply. When the peel
ply is removed, the tags have a contamination-free, bondable surface that requires no additional
preparation.
Attachment instructions•••

Immediately prior to attachment, peel off the peel ply fabric
Apply epoxy to the tag bottom.
Attach tag to the animal.

Recommendations•••

If your application process includes sterilizing the tag, do so with the peel ply fabric in place.
Do not touch the exposed tag bottom surface with anything other than your epoxy.
Surfaces with peel ply should not be sanded.

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not be used, published, or redistributed without the prior written consent of Wildlife Computers.

Additional Advice

Once a SPOT is deployed, keep all magnets away from the reset position. Even though it takes two
specifically timed swipes of the magnet to change modes, it is still a good idea to keep magnets away
just in case.
Fine-grade sandpaper can be used to clean wet/dry sensors. Before deploying, ensure the wet/dry
sensors are clean and free of any residual epoxy, tape residue or other contaminants. If the wet/dry
sensors are covered, it will reduce the SPOT ability to determine wet and dry.
1. If traveling on a commercial carrier with your SPOT tags:a. We recommend you place the tags in Stop Mode, so they are not transmitting.
b. We suggest carrying a copy of your invoice or our product literature identifying the
tag as a scientific research instrument.
2. We highly recommend that a laptop with Tag Agent and USB driver installed and a Wildlife
Computers USB communications cable are brought to the field location so that
communication with the tag is possible onsite if necessary.

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Contacting Wildlife Computers
U.S. and International

Members of the Wildlife Computers technical sales and support team are in Redmond, WA, USA, andHavelock North, New Zealand, allowing us to cover promptly a wide range of time zones.

Mailing and Shipping

Wildlife Computers8310 154th Avenue NE, Suite 150
Redmond, WA 98052 USA

EmailSales, Quotes, and Inquiries: tags@wildlifecomputers.com
Technical Support: support@wildlifecomputers.com

Phone+1 (425) 881 3048

WebsiteWildlifeComputers.com

For Asian Clients

While we welcome your direct correspondence, we recommend that you contact our colleague, Yong
Huang, for assistance. Mr. Huang understands the special purchase processes for your countries andwill provide you with the best service for the best price. He also is fluent in Japanese, Chinese, andEnglish.

Mailing Address — Please ship tags to our main office in Redmond, WA
Yong Huang
Enfotran Corporation
816 Evergreen Point Road, #217
Medina, WA 98039 USA

Emailyong.huang@enfo.us

Phone+1 (425) 456 0101

Fax

+1 (425) 456 0303

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The information contained in these documents is confidential, privileged and only for the information of the intended recipient andmay not be used, published, or redistributed without the prior written consent of Wildlife Computers.

Addendum One
Battery Storage and Testing Guidelines for AA-Battery Tags

The following SPOT tags contain one AA battery. This battery configuration is susceptible topassivation if the batteries are not properly exercised every month.
SPOT-177• AM-S177Q-00• AM-S177R-00• AM-S177S-00

SPOT-258• AM-S258G-00• AM-S258H-00• AM-S258I-00

SPOT-196• AM-S196I• AM-S196J

SPOT-364• AM-S364A-00• AM-S364B-00• AM-S364C-00

SPOT-253• AM-S253G-00

SPOT-386• AM-S386A-00• AM-S386B-00

SPOT-F-398• AM-S398A-F-00
SPOT-399• AM-S399A-00
SPOT-405• AM-S405A-00
SPOT-413• AM-S413A-00

To minimize passivation, follow the special storage and battery maintenance guidelines below.
Proper tag storage and battery maintenance are important to minimize passivation, maintain optimalbattery voltage, and prepare the tags for deployment. When stored correctly, tags may experience battery
life loss of one to two percent for every year of non-use.
As a standard, SPOT tags ship in “Auto-Start” mode for immediate deployment, unless otherwise specified.

Storing SPOT Tags with One AA Battery for Less Than One MonthIf your deployment date is less than one month from receipt, simply store the tags in “Auto-Start” mode ina cool, dry environment—ideally around +5° C—like a refrigerator or freezer.

Storing SPOT Tags with One AA Battery for Longer Than One MonthIf your deployment date is greater than one month from receipt, place the tags in “Stop” mode before
storing in a cool, dry environment—ideally around +5° C—like a refrigerator or freezer. Refer to the Tag
Storage and Battery Maintenance section of this User Guide.
SPOT tags can be stored longer than a month, but care must be taken for tags with one AA battery to
avoid battery passivation. After storing your tags, you must connect to each tag monthly and exercise thebatteries. Send Test Transmissions in Tag Agent to confirm the battery voltage is within the acceptable
range (3.3V-3.7V). See the Sending Test Transmission section of this user guide.

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The information contained in these documents is confidential, privileged and only for the information of the intended recipient andmay not be used, published, or redistributed without the prior written consent of Wildlife Computers.